cruise travel report

Hurtigruten Resumes Three Popular Itineraries – Explore & Experience the Unique, Natural Nordic Light

Seabourn extends their black friday sail for one-week only, seabourn’s ultra-luxe expeditions will be led by elite group of world-renowned experts, british airways introduces avios collection on world duty free purchases, princess counting down to port canaveral inaugural season, cruise & travel report.

For The Explorer In All of Us

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Cruise News

The Gift of Adventure is the Best Holiday Gift – Hurtigruten Offering up to 50% on Select Voyages if Booked by December 15. Hurtigruten is reviving three itineraries that delve into the captivating cultural tapestry and celestial wonders of the Nordic region.

Celestyal Cruises Adds Three New Countries and Six New Ports to 2024/2025 Itineraries

Holland America Line Pastry Team Promises to ‘Cake You Away’ Serving Their Favorites in New Dessert Extravaganza

Seabourn Expedition Ships in Historic Meet-Up

Princess Cruises Unveils 2025-26 Australia and New Zealand Season

Hurtigruten Expeditions (a.k.a. HX) Announces Their 2025-2026 Season

Airline, hotel & resort news.

American Airlines Reports Record-Breaking Thanksgiving Operations

A Celtic Combo: JetBlue Announces Seasonal Flights to Dublin and Edinburgh on Sale Today

Fairmont Empress in Victoria, British Columbia Introduces Artist in Residence Program

American Airlines Announces a More Seamless Experience for Connecting at London’s Heathrow

Delta Air Lines Contributes $1M+ to Ukraine Relief, Urges Customers to Help Too

Newest Delta Sky Club Opens in Fort Lauderdale as Customers Return to the Skies

France Reopens to Leisure Travel; Delta Adds More Paris & Nice Flights – Fly from BOS, JFK, MSP & ATL

Fresh From The Video Vault

The Black Friday Sail commences on November 28, 2023, and concludes on December 4, 2023. Discerning travelers can select from nearly 400 itineraries aboard Seabourn’s ultra-luxury fleet, venturing to a kaleidoscope of worldwide destinations.

Seabourn, a specialist in ultra-luxury voyages and expedition travel, invites guests to embark on adventures guided by elite, world-renowned Expedition Teams aboard Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit, the company’s new purpose-built, ultra-luxury expedition ships.

Princess Cruises is preparing to add a new home port one year from today: Caribbean Princess will embark on its first-ever voyage from Port Canaveral, establishing a new homeport in the heart of Central Florida.

In a landmark moment for Seabourn, a leader in ultra-luxury voyages and expedition travel, its two new expedition ships, Seabourn Pursuit and Seabourn Venture, sailed side-by-side for the first time on Wednesday. The sister ships met at the entrance to the picturesque Neko Harbor in Antarctica, marking Seabourn Pursuit’s maiden voyage to the icy continent.

10 Nova Scotia Fun Facts

Did you know you that you can ride on a tidal bore? Or that Nova Scotia has a wine country? This week Tourism Nova Scotia released 10 Fun Facts about Nova Scotia that will have you planning your next vacation!

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions), a leader in expedition cruising, announces its 2025-2026 season, doubling down on growth destinations with the introduction of new ports, landings, and itineraries, as well as increased local integration and community engagement programming.

Celebrity Cruises Reveals Stunning Lineup of Entertainment for the New Celebrity Ascent as the Countdown Continues

Celebrity Cruises today revealed a stunning lineup of entertainment for its highly anticipated new ship, Celebrity Ascent, providing something for everyone with an approach that is equal parts tradition, evolution, and revolution.

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Part I: Epicurean Expedition Cruises: Where Food Meets Exploration

Beyond the Ice: Wildly Diverse Expedition Cruise Experiences in Different Environments Expedition vessels, renowned for their icy adventures in the Arctic, now offer a spectrum of experiences throughout the year. These ships have diversified their offerings to include cultural cruises,…

Part II: Cultural / Discovery Expedition Cruises — Exploring the Heavens & Cosmos

Beyond the Ice: Wildly Diverse Expedition Cruise Experiences in Different Environments CruiseCompete is currently experiencing a remarkable surge in expedition cruise requests, boasting an impressive 24.11% uptick in inquiries from its 1.5 million members to date in 2024. These requests…

Part III: North Pole Excursions Aboard Expedition Ships

Expedition vessels, renowned for their thrilling adventures amidst the icy terrain of the Arctic, offer unparalleled experiences. Here, we offer you a glimpse into the extraordinary adventures awaiting you on expedition cruises to the North Pole (Arctic). North Pole (Arctic):…

Part IV: South Pole ~Expeditions to Antarctic via Expedition Ship 

Embark on an Antarctic Odyssey, Prepare to be Astonished Expedition cruises are unique experiences that showcase the diversity and adventure that await travelers on expeditions to the polar regions, whether exploring the North Pole or the South Pole. Expedition vessels,…

Invitations To Pre-Book / WaitList for Special Voyages~For Our Treasured Guests

With cruise itineraries constantly evolving due to changing guidelines and restrictions around the globe, not all itineraries may be available on our website for pre-booking. We are extremely pleased to share exciting news and offers for you.

REVIEW: VIKING RIVER CRUISE, ‘PARIS TO THE HEART OF NORMANDY,’ HAD ME AT HELLO

As Humphrey Bogart said to Ingrid Bergman on that airport runway in Casablanca, “We’ll always have Paris” … … so an invitation to board one of Viking’s Longships in the City Of Light had me at ‘hello’ VIKING PRACTICALLY INVENTED…

FIRST CELEBRITY CRUISES GUESTS ENJOY PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

Inaugural calls by Celebrity Reflection and Celebrity Beyond usher in offering of short, premium Caribbean getaways COURTESY Celebrity Cruises: MIAMI, (April 23, 2024) – Celebrity Cruises® guests visited Perfect Day at CocoCay, the number one destination in Royal Caribbean Group,…

Why People Repeat Cunard’s Transatlantic Crossing

I saw the original Star Wars movie seven times. This was not over a 40-year period, this was in the first couple of years following its 1977 release. It was a great movie. You saw additional details on each subsequent…

Review: Stax Museum of American Soul Music a Memphis Musical Landmark

Jim Stewart was a part-time fiddle player and bank teller who wanted to make music. His sister, Estelle Axton, was a schoolteacher who wanted to run a record store. Together they formed Stax Records — the “St” for Stewart, the…

Seatrade Cruise Global: Optimism Running High in the Cruise Industry and for Cruise Travelers

The cruise industry and cruise travel is booming. For further evidence, consider the just-concluded conference in Miami Beach, where over 11,000 people from 120 countries came together for four days. With the pandemic firmly in the rear-view mirror, optimism ran high…

Holland America Line Debuts New Stage Shows on Cruise Ships

A Tina Turner song puts the Holland America Line audience in high gear. Following are more songs by Enya, Kylie Minogue and former Las Vegas entertainer Lola Falana as sung by cruise line performers. Holland America Line is adding to…

PONANT Launches a New Catamaran, Spirit of Ponant, to Set Sail this Summer

Courtesy PONANT: April 9, 2024 | PONANT announces the latest addition to its fleet: the 24-meter Spirit of Ponant, whose intimate size and seafaring spirit nod to the brand’s roots in small-ship sailing. Built in France, the six-stateroom catamaran will…

17 Lifetime Memories to Create on Your Next Cruise

Cruising is a vacation journey that can bring together luxury, exploration, romance and affordability. It has been said Millennials are seeking experiences. Here is a news flash: Everyone else wants (pleasant) experiences too. Most of our sailing has been done…

Review: VIKING MARS: Transatlantic…and Terrific!

Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Mars Brings Comfort to Crossing The Boeing 777-200 hasn’t even lifted off from Barcelona’s International Airport before my shoulders, neck and back begin to object to the confines of my coach seat. The woman beside me…

Swan Hellenic Announces Completion of Record-Breaking Antarctic Season with 90% occupancy, and Releases Details of 2025-2026 “Incredible Antarctica” Cruises

Ending its near sell-out Antarctic season with a 20-night voyage from Ushuaia to Cape Town, the cultural expedition cruise pioneer announces what’s in store for explorers of the “White Continent” in 2025-2026. COURTESY SWAN HELLENIC: March 25, 2024 – Today,…

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Carnival Pride Repositions to the East Coast

After completing its winter 2023-24 program in Tampa, the Carnival Pride recently repositioned to the East Coast. The Carnival Cruise Line vessel is now offering a series of seven- to 14-night cruises departing from Norfolk. The itineraries were initially scheduled to depart from the Port of Baltimore, which remains closed

CRUISE NEWS

Spectrum of the Seas Marks Royal Caribbean’s Return to China

Marking Royal Caribbean International’s return to China after a four-year hiatus, the Spectrum of the Seas arrived in Shanghai today. Ending an eight-night repositioning cruise that started in Singapore, the 2019-built vessel docked at the Shanghai Baoshan International Cruise Terminal after visits to Vietnam and Hong Kong. The Spectrum of

Royal Caribbean Reports 2024 Q1; Increases Guidance

Royal Caribbean Group today reported first quarter Earnings per Share (“EPS”) of $1.35 and Adjusted EPS of $1.7, according to a press release. These results were better than the company’s guidance due to stronger pricing on close-in demand, strength in onboard revenue and favorable timing of expenses. As a result

Crystal Offering ‘Unique Brand’ in Luxury Market

“Crystal is truly unique in the market, epitomizing the unparalleled sophistication we offer with award-winning service, exquisite culinary experiences and remarkable innovative entertainment. But what truly sets us apart is how we are rethinking, repositioning and elevating the brand to make it a lifestyle brand at sea,” said Jacqueline Barney,

Former Braemar Sails from Scotland Ahead of Villa Vie Debut

The former Braemar has sailed from Scotland ahead of debuting for Villa Vie Residences. After spending almost four years docked in Rosyth, the 1993-built vessel left the port under its own power on Tuesday morning. Set to be renamed Villa Vie Odyssey, the cruise ship is now on its way

New Norwegian Aqua Floats Out At Fincantieri

Norwegian Cruise Line and its partners at Fincantieri celebrated the float out of the Norwegian Aqua from the drydock at the shipyard in Marghera (Venice), Italy. This marks the completion of the external work on the ship ahead of its April 2025 debut. As per maritime tradition, two ceremonial coins

Carnival Sunrise Conversion Marks Five Years

The Carnival Sunrise conversion is marking five years this month. The $200-million project took place in Spain and saw the Carnival Cruise Line ship essentially being rebuilt. As part of the bow-to-stern makeover project, the former Carnival Triumph received all-new public areas, as well as additional cabins and new features.

Princess Cruises: 2024 Capacity Breakdown

Princess Cruises continues to invest in its core markets in 2024. According to the 2024 Cruise Industry News Annual Report, the Carnival Corporation brand will see most of its capacity concentrated in North America. The premium brand is set to offer strong programs in the Caribbean and Alaska, which account

Azamara: Diversifying Itineraries More

Highlights of 2025 will include an extended Greenland program and the addition of a series of Canada and New England sailings, according to Michael Pawlus, head of itinerary planning. “For 2025 and 2026 we are also diversifying more. We have had all our eggs in Europe (in the summer), but

Carnival: Introducing Celebration Key

The big news for Carnival Cruise Line for 2025 will be the July opening of Celebration Key. Eighteen ships sailing from 10 different homeports will be calling at Carnival’s new destination in the Bahamas, Fred Stein, vice president of planning and deployment, told Cruise Industry News. “Our regular itinerary cycles

Silver Ray Completes Conveyance

Silversea Cruises’ newest addition to the fleet, the Silver Ray, has completed conveyance on the River Ems its according to Meyer Werft.  The ship is expected to moor in the Dutch port of Eemshaven for final outfitting ahead of its technical and nautical sea trials on the North Sea. The

Carnival Spirit Completes First Winter Program in Mobile

The Carnival Spirit recently wrapped up its first winter program out of Mobile. After completing a final sailing from its Alabama homeport earlier this month, the Carnival Cruise Line vessel deadheaded to Tampa to embark on a repositioning cruise to the West Coast. Set to spend the upcoming cruise season

Cunard Officially Welcomes Queen Anne with Ceremony at Fincantieri Shipyard

The Queen Anne has officially joined Cunard’s fleet during a handover ceremony at the Fincantieri Marghera shipyard in Venice, according to a press release. The event was attended by Italian Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy, Adolfo Urso, and Italian Minister for Relations with Parliament, Luca Ciriani. Also present

Atlas Ocean Voyages Announces 2025-26 Antarctic Season

Atlas Ocean Voyages announced that its 2025-26 Antarctica expeditions are now available for bookings. Running from October 2025 to March 2026, the new Antarctica season offers 37 departures aboard the World Voyager, World Navigator and World Traveller, according to a press release.  “Antarctica continues to be the most popular and

Fincantieri: ‘Covering All Brands’ with Eye on Future Fuels

Coming off a big newbuild order from Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Daniele Fanara, director newbuilding and after-sales at Fincantieri, is positive on the future. “We are serving all segments of the market, from small luxury vessels to mega-size vessels to upper premium,” said Fanara, speaking to Cruise Industry News. “This

Norwegian Cruise Line Unveils New Culinary Experiences on Aqua

Norwegian Cruise Line announced new culinary and beverage experiences debuting aboard the Norwegian Aqua, setting sail in April 2025. The Norwegian Aqua will feature three new onboard offerings including Sukhothai, NCL’s first-ever Thai specialty restaurant; Swirl Wine Bar, a new wine bar; and Planterie, the company’s first dedicated eatery offering

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• Section 8 - Road & Traffic Safety
• Section 8 - Motion Sickness

Cruise Ship Travel

Cdc yellow book 2024.

Author(s): Kara Tardivel, Stefanie White, Aimee Treffiletti, Amy Freeland

Cruise Ship Medical Capabilities

Illness & injury, infectious disease health risks, noninfectious health risks, travel preparation.

Cruise ship travel presents a unique combination of health concerns. Travelers from diverse regions brought together in the often crowded, semi-enclosed shipboard environment can facilitate the spread of person-to-person, foodborne, and waterborne diseases. Outbreaks on ships can be sustained over multiple voyages by crewmembers who remain onboard, or by persistent environmental contamination. Port visits can expose travelers to local diseases and, conversely, be a conduit for disease introduction into shoreside communities.

Some people (e.g., those with chronic health conditions or who are immunocompromised, older people, pregnant people) merit additional considerations when preparing for a cruise. Because travelers at sea might need to rely on a ship’s medical capabilities for an extended period, potential cruise passengers with preexisting medical needs should prepare accordingly by calling the cruise line’s customer service center to learn what type and level of health care services are (and are not) available on specific ships.

Medical facilities on cruise ships can vary widely depending on ship size, itinerary, cruise duration, and passenger demographics. Generally, shipboard medical centers can provide medical care comparable to that of ambulatory care centers; some are capable of providing hospitalization services or renal dialysis. Although no agency officially regulates medical practice aboard cruise ships, the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) published consensus-based guidelines for cruise ship medical facilities in 1995, and updated the guidelines in 2013. ACEP guidelines , which most major cruise lines follow, state that cruise ship medical facilities should be able to provide quality medical care for passengers and crew; initiate appropriate stabilization, diagnostic, and therapeutic maneuvers for critically ill or medically unstable patients; and assist in the medical evacuation of patients in a timely fashion, when appropriate.

Cruise ship medical centers deal with a wide variety of illnesses and injuries; ≈10% of conditions reported to cruise ship medical centers are an emergency or require urgent care. Approximately 95% of illnesses are treated or managed onboard, with the remainder requiring evacuation and shoreside consultation for dental, medical, or surgical issues. Roughly half of all passengers seeking medical care are >65 years old.

Medical center visits are primarily the result of acute illness or injury. The most frequently reported diagnoses include respiratory illnesses (30%–40%); injuries from slips, trips, or falls (12%–18%); seasickness (10%); and gastrointestinal (GI) illness (10%); 80% of onboard deaths are due to cardiovascular events.

Infectious Disease Outbreaks

The most frequently reported cruise ship outbreaks involve GI infections (e.g., norovirus), respiratory infections (e.g., coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19], influenza), and other vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs), such as varicella. Although cruise ships do not have public health authority, to reduce the risk of introducing communicable diseases, some ships conduct medical screening during embarkation to identify ill passengers, prevent them from boarding, or require isolation if permission to board is given.

Before travel, to help limit the introduction and spread of communicable diseases on cruise ships, prospective cruise ship travelers and their clinicians should consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers’ Health website for updates on outbreaks and destination-specific travel health notices. People who become ill with a communicable disease before a voyage should consult their health care provider and delay their travel until they are no longer contagious. When booking a cruise, travelers should check the trip cancellation policies and consider purchasing trip cancellation insurance (see Sec. 6, Ch. 1, Travel Insurance, Travel Health Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance ).

Travelers who become ill during a voyage should seek care in the ship’s medical center; the onboard staff will provide clinical management, facilitate infection-control measures, and take responsibility for reporting potential public health events. For information on how to report travelers who become ill with suspected communicable diseases after they return home from a cruise, see Sec. 8, Ch. 8, Airplanes & Cruise Ships: Illness & Death Reporting & Public Health Interventions .

Gastrointestinal Illnesses

During 2006–2019, rates of GI illness among passengers on voyages lasting 3–21 days fell from 32.5 to 16.9 cases per 100,000 travel days. Despite the decrease, outbreaks continue to occur. CDC assists the cruise ship industry to prevent and control the introduction, transmission, and spread of GI illnesses on cruise ships. See information on cruise ship GI illnesses and updates on GI illness outbreaks involving ships with US ports of call, specifically.

On cruise ships, >90% of GI illness outbreaks with a confirmed cause are due to norovirus. Characteristics of norovirus that facilitate outbreaks include a low infective dose, easy person-to-person transmissibility, prolonged viral shedding, absence of long-term immunity, and the ability of the virus to survive routine cleaning procedures (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 16, Norovirus ). For international cruise ships porting in the United States during 2006–2019, an average of 12 norovirus outbreaks occurred each year.

Other Sources of Gastrointestinal Illness

GI outbreaks on cruise ships also have been caused by contaminated food or water; most outbreaks were associated with  Campylobacter ,  Clostridium perfringens , or enterotoxigenic  Escherichia coli .

Protective Measures

Travelers can reduce the risk of acquiring a GI illness on cruise ships by frequently washing hands with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the restroom. Travelers should call the ship’s medical center promptly, even for mild symptoms of a GI illness, and strictly follow cruise ship guidance regarding isolation and other infection-control measures.

Respiratory Illnesses

Respiratory illnesses are the most common medical complaint on cruise ships. During the pretravel visit, evaluate whether vaccines or boosters (e.g., COVID-19, influenza) are needed and emphasize the importance of practicing good respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette while onboard. As with GI illnesses, cruise ship passengers should report respiratory illness to the medical center promptly and follow isolation recommendations as instructed.

Coronavirus Disease 2019

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus that causes COVID-19, spreads more easily between people in close quarters, and multiple studies have concluded that transmission rates of SARS-CoV-2 among travelers on ships are much greater than in other settings. Cruise ship COVID-19 outbreaks can tax onboard medical and public health resources. Ship-to-shore medical evacuations to facilities capable of providing higher levels of medical care can present logistical challenges and pose additional risks to ill patients.

Cruise passengers and crewmembers who are not up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines are at increased risk for severe illness, hospitalization, medical evacuation, and death. Since cruising will always pose some risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission, ensure that people planning cruise ship travel are up to date with their vaccinations, and assess their likelihood for developing severe COVID-19. For people at increased risk of severe COVID-19 regardless of their vaccination status (e.g., pregnant people, people who are immunocompromised), discuss the potential health hazards associated with cruise ship travel. CDC has developed recommendations and guidance designed to help cruise ship operators provide a safer and healthier environment for crewmembers, passengers, port personnel, and communities.

Historically, influenza has been among the most often reported VPDs occurring on cruise ships. Because passengers and crew originate from all regions of the globe, shipboard outbreaks of influenza A and B can occur year-round, with exposure to strains circulating in different parts of the world (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 12, Influenza ). Thus, anyone planning a cruise should receive the current seasonal influenza vaccine ≥2 weeks before travel if vaccine is available and no contraindications exist. For people at high risk for influenza complications, health care providers should discuss chemoprophylaxis and how and when to initiate antiviral treatment.

See additional guidance on the prevention and control of influenza on cruise ships .

Legionnaires’ Disease

Less common on cruise ships, Legionnaires’ disease is nevertheless a treatable infection that can result in severe pneumonia leading to death (see Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 9, Legionnaires’ Disease & Pontiac Fever ). Approximately 10%–15% of all Legionnaires’ disease cases reported to CDC occur in people who have traveled during the 10 days before symptom onset. Clusters of Legionnaires’ disease associated with hotel or cruise ship travel can be difficult to detect, because travelers often disperse from the source of infection before symptoms begin. Data reported to CDC during 2014–2015 included 25 confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease associated with cruise ship exposures.

In general, Legionnaires’ disease is contracted by inhaling warm, aerosolized water containing the bacteria,  Legionella . Transmission also can sometimes occur through aspiration of  Legionella -containing water. Typically, people do not spread  Legionella  to others; a single episode of possible person-to-person transmission of Legionnaires’ disease has been reported. Contaminated hot tubs are commonly implicated as a source of shipboard  Legionella  outbreaks, although potable water supply systems also have been culpable. Improvements in ship design and standardization of water disinfection have reduced the risk for  Legionella  growth and colonization.

Diagnosis & Reporting

People with suspected Legionnaires’ disease require prompt antibiotic treatment. When evaluating cruise travelers for Legionnaires’ disease, obtain a thorough travel history of all destinations during the 10 days before symptom onset to assist in identifying potential sources of exposure, and collect urine for  Legionella  antigen testing. Most cruise ships have the capacity to perform this test, which detects  L. pneumophila  serogroup 1, the most common serogroup.

Perform culture of lower respiratory secretions on selective media to detect non– L. pneumophila  serogroup 1 species and serogroups. Culture also is used for comparing clinical isolates to environmental isolates during an outbreak investigation. Notify CDC of any travel-associated Legionnaires’ disease cases by sending an email to [email protected]. Quickly report all cases of Legionnaires’ disease to public health officials, who can determine whether a case links to previously reported cases and work to stop potential clusters and new outbreaks.

Other Vaccine-Preventable Diseases

Although most cruise ship passengers come from countries with routine vaccination programs (e.g., Canada, the United States), many of the crew are from low- or middle-income countries where immunization rates can be low. Outbreaks of hepatitis A, measles, meningococcal disease, mumps, pertussis, rubella, and varicella have all been reported on cruise ships. The majority (82%) of these outbreaks occur among crewmembers; prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, varicella was the most frequently reported VPD. Other VPDs (e.g., pertussis) occur more often among passengers.

Each cruise line sets its own policies regarding vaccinations for its crew; some have limited or no requirements. Thus, all passengers should be up to date with routine vaccinations before travel, as well as any required or recommended vaccinations specific for their destinations. People of childbearing age should have documented immunity to measles, rubella, and varicella (either by vaccination or titer) before cruise ship travel.

Vectorborne Diseases

Some cruise ship ports of call include destinations where vectorborne diseases (e.g., dengue, Japanese encephalitis, malaria, yellow fever, Zika) are known to be endemic. In addition, new diseases can surface in unexpected locations; chikungunya was reported for the first time in the Caribbean in late 2013, with subsequent spread throughout the region and numerous other North, Central, and South American countries and territories. Zika was first reported in Brazil in 2015, and subsequently spread across the Caribbean and Latin America, sparking concern because of its association with microcephaly and other congenital abnormalities in the fetus. For disease-specific information, see the relevant chapters of Section 5.

For guidance on how to avoid bites from mosquitoes and other disease-transmitting arthropod vectors, both onboard and while on shore at ports of call, see Sec. 4, Ch. 6, Mosquitoes, Ticks & Other Arthropods . For specific details on yellow fever vaccination and malaria prevention, see Sec. 2, Ch. 5, Yellow Fever Vaccine & Malaria Prevention Information, by Country .

Stresses of cruise ship travel include varying weather and environmental conditions, and unaccustomed changes to diet and levels of physical activity. Despite modern stabilizer systems, seasickness is a common complaint, affecting up to 25% of travelers (see Sec. 8, Ch. 7, Motion Sickness ). Note that travel is an independent risk factor for behaviors such as alcohol and illicit drug use and misuse (see Sec. 3, Ch. 5, Substance Use & Substance Use Disorders ), and unsafe sex (see Sec. 9, Ch. 12, Sex & Travel ).

Cruise ship travelers have complex itineraries due to multiple short port visits. Although most port visits do not include overnight stays off ship, some trips offer travelers the opportunity to venture off the ship for ≥1 night. These excursions can complicate decisions about exposures and the need for specific antimicrobial prophylaxis, immunizations, and other prevention measures.  Boxes 8-04  and  8-05  summarize recommended cruise travel preparations and healthy behaviors during travel for health care providers and cruise ship travelers.

Box 8-04 Healthy cruise travel preparation: a checklist for health care providers

Risk assessment & risk communication.

☐ Discuss itinerary, including season, duration of travel, and activities at ports of call. ☐ Review the traveler’s medical and immunization history, allergies, and any additional health needs. ☐ Discuss relevant travel-specific health hazards and risk reduction. ☐ Provide travelers with documentation of their medical history, immunizations, and medications.

VACCINATION & RISK MANAGEMENT

☐ Provide routinely recommended (age-specific), required (yellow fever), and recommended vaccines. ☐ Discuss safe food and water precautions. ☐ Discuss insect bite prevention. ☐ Provide older travelers with a baseline electrocardiogram, especially those with coronary artery disease.

MEDICATIONS BASED ON RISK & NEED

☐ Consider prescribing malaria chemoprophylaxis if itinerary includes stops in malaria-endemic areas. ☐ Consider prescribing motion sickness medications for self-treatment.

Box 8-05 Healthy cruise travel preparation: a checklist for travelers

☐ Carry prescription drugs in original containers with a copy of the prescription and a physician’s letter. ☐ Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Outbreak Updates for International Cruise Ships website for gastrointestinal outbreaks. ☐ Consider purchasing additional insurance coverage for overseas health care and medical evacuation. ☐ Consult medical and dental providers before cruise travel. ☐ Consult CDC Travelers’ Health website for travel health notices . ☐ Defer travel while acutely ill. ☐ Evaluate the type and length of the planned cruise in the context of personal health requirements. ☐ Notify the cruise line of additional health needs (e.g., dialysis, supplemental oxygen, wheelchair). ☐ Pack Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)–registered insect repellent; consider treating clothes and gear with permethrin. ☐ Pack sunscreen.

DURING TRAVEL

☐ Avoid contact with people who are ill. ☐ Follow safe food and water precautions when eating off ship at ports of call. ☐ Maintain good fluid intake and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. ☐ Practice safe sex. ☐ Report all illnesses to ship’s medical center and follow their recommendations. ☐ Use insect bite precautions during port visits, especially in vectorborne disease–endemic areas or areas experiencing outbreaks of vectorborne diseases (e.g., Zika, yellow fever) ☐ Use sun protection. ☐ Wash hands frequently with soap and water; if soap and water are not available, use ≥60% alcohol–based hand sanitizer.

POST TRAVEL

☐ See CDC’s latest post-cruise health guidance regarding coronavirus disease 2019.

Travelers with Additional Considerations

Travelers with chronic illnesses and travelers with disabilities who have additional needs (e.g., dialysis, supplemental oxygen, wheelchairs) should inform their cruise line before traveling. Highly allergic travelers and travelers with underlying medical conditions should carry a file that contains essential, pertinent health information (e.g., allergies, blood type, chest radiograph [if abnormal], chronic conditions, electrocardiogram, medication list, primary and/or specialty care provider contact information). Travelers also should bring any medications recommended by their health care provider (e.g., an epinephrine auto-injector) to help facilitate care during a medical emergency. For detailed information on preparing travelers who have additional considerations for international travel, including severe allergies, chronic illness, disabilities, or immune compromise, see Section 3.

Pregnant Travelers

Most cruise lines have policies that do not permit people to board after their 24th week of pregnancy. Contact cruise lines directly for specific guidance before booking. For additional information on preparing pregnant people for international travel, see Sec. 7, Ch. 1, Pregnant Travelers .

Insurance Coverage

All prospective cruise travelers should verify coverage with their health insurance carriers and, if not included, consider purchasing additional insurance to cover medical evacuation and health services received onboard cruise ships and in foreign countries (see Sec. 6, Ch. 1, Travel Insurance, Travel Health Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance ).

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Kara Tardivel, Stefanie B. White, Krista Kornylo Duong

Bibliography

Hill CD. Cruise ship travel. In: Keystone JS, Kozarsky PE, Connor BA, Nothdurft HD, Mendelson M, editors. Travel medicine, 4th edition. Philadelphia: Saunders Elsevier; 2019. pp. 377–82. 

Jenkins KA, Vaughan GHJ, Rodriguez LO, Freeland AL. Acute gastroenteritis on cruise ships—United States, 2006–2019. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2021;70(6):1–19. 

Kordsmeyer A-C, Mojtahedzadeh N, Heidrich J, Militzer K, von Münster T, Belz L, et al. Systematic review on outbreaks of SARS-CoV-2 on cruise, navy and cargo ships. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021;18(10):5195. 

Millman AJ, Kornylo Duong K, Lafond K, Green NM, Lippold SA, Jhung MA. Influenza outbreaks among passengers and crew on two cruise ships: a recent account of preparedness and response to an ever-present challenge. J Travel Med. 2015;22(5):306–11. 

Mouchtouri VA, Lewis HC, Hadjichristodoulou C. A systematic review for vaccine-preventable diseases on ships: evidence for cross-border transmission and for pre-employment immunization need. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2019;16(15):2713. 

Payne DC, Smith-Jeffcoat SE, Nowak G, Chuwkwuma U, Geibe JR, Hawkins RJ, et al. SARS-CoV-2 infections and serologic responses from a Sample of U.S. Navy service members—USS Theodore Roosevelt, April 2020. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2020;69(23):714–21. 

Peake DE, Gray CL, Ludwig MR, Hill CD. Descriptive epidemiology of injury and illness among cruise ship passengers. Ann Emerg Med. 1999;33(1):67–72. 

Rice ME, Bannerman M, Marin M, Lopez AS, Lewis MM, Stamatakis CE, et al. Maritime varicella illness and death reporting, U.S., 2010–2015. Travel Med Infect Dis. 2018;23:27–33. 

Rocklöv J, Sjödin H, Wilder-Smith A. COVID-19 outbreak on the Diamond Princess cruise ship: estimating the epidemic potential and effectiveness of public health countermeasures. J Travel Med. 2020;27(3):taaa030. 

Stamatakis CE, Rice ME, Washburn FM, Krohn KJ, Bannerman M, et al. Maritime illness and death reporting and public health response, United States, 2010–2014. J Travel Med Inf Dis. 2017;19:16–21.

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Port of Charleston: A guide to cruising from the Holy City

Frequent cruisers are likely familiar with popular East Coast cruise ports, such as Boston, Baltimore, New York City and Cape Liberty in Bayonne, New Jersey. But did you know you can also cruise from the Carolinas? The cruise port in Charleston, South Carolina, is a driveable distance from several cities, including Charlotte (three hours) and Raleigh (four hours) in North Carolina.

Charleston might not be a bustling cruise home port like PortMiami , but the city is a destination in its own right. And if you're sailing with American Cruise Lines or Carnival Cruise Line, you'll find plenty to do in the Holy City before or after your cruise.

Plus, the Port of Charleston is easy to get to from Charleston International Airport (CHS), and the city offers a good selection of points hotels for a pre- or post-cruise stay.

For more cruise news, guides and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Here's everything you need to know about cruising from the Port of Charleston.

Port of Charleston fast facts

Port of charleston cruise terminal information.

Address : 32 Washington St., Charleston, SC 29401

Number of terminals : 1 (passenger terminal)

Map (PDF link)

Cruise lines sailing from the Port of Charleston

Currently, two cruise lines depart from the Port of Charleston.

American Cruise Lines ' Historic South & Golden Isles Cruise and Holidays in the Southeast cruise depart from Charleston. Additionally, Carnival Cruise Line 's Carnival Sunshine cruises out of Charleston on round-trip four- to 10-night sailings to the Bahamas and Eastern Caribbean .

Charleston also serves as a port of call on repositioning cruises or longer East Coast and Bahamas/Bermuda itineraries with cruise lines such as Viking, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Royal Caribbean.

Related: How to book a cruise using points and miles

Airport near the Port of Charleston

The Port of Charleston is 12 miles (about 25 minutes) from Charleston International Airport (CHS). Various airlines fly to CHS from other U.S. cities, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines.

Your disembarkation time might not align with your outbound flight time. So, if you have time to kill at the airport, you can spend it at The Club CHS lounge. The lounge is in the main terminal on the second level toward Concourse B. A daypass is $50 per person unless you have a Priority Pass membership through premium credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® or The Platinum Card® from American Express (enrollment required). AAA members get in at a discounted rate of $42.50.

How to get to the Port of Charleston

You have a few options for getting to the cruise port from the airport or a hotel in Charleston.

Hotel shuttles

On-site parking isn't available at every hotel in downtown Charleston, so leaving your car at the hotel while you cruise likely won't be the best way to go. However, some area hotels offer shuttle service to the port or provide complimentary transportation within a certain distance from the property. For example, The Dewberry Charleston offers guests complimentary transportation within 5 square miles of the hotel via its Volvo house cars. The cruise port is just over a mile from the hotel.

When you are choosing a pre-cruise hotel, inquire about transportation to the cruise port before you make your reservations.

Independent van/car services

You can arrange private pickup and drop-off through car and van services like GCT Chauffeured Services , which will cost between $100 and $199 for up to three people.

Taxis and ride-hailing services

Hailing a taxi to get to the Port of Charleston is simple. At the airport, taxi service is at the center median just outside baggage claim. Taxis charge a $17 minimum fee from CHS. Taxi fares are based on a trip meter rate of $3 per mile, which includes up to two passengers. You'll either pay the $17 minimum or the fee displayed on the meter at the end of the trip (whichever is the greater amount). Additional passengers are $7 per passenger, per trip. Based on taxi rates in Charleston and the distance from the airport to the cruise port, the estimated fare is $30 to $40.

Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are also an option. Follow the signs outside the baggage claim area to the sheltered pickup area across both roadways. You'll find it to the right of the last sidewalk.

Public transportation

Charleston's public bus service, Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority, does not currently provide a convenient station or stop to the cruise port.

Port of Charleston parking

The majority of cruisers sailing out of the Port of Charleston will be driving to the port, arriving the day of departure or the night before. Therefore, the port offers plentiful on-site parking.

Long-term parking for cruise passengers' vehicles at the port does not require reservations. Parking is located within a gated area available only to cruise passengers and not the general public, and port police secure and patrol the site during the cruise.

A complimentary shuttle bus runs between the vehicle parking areas and the passenger terminal on both departure and return dates of the cruise.

The cost for parking standard-size vehicles is $21 per day. The parking fee for oversize vehicles longer than 20 feet (campers, recreational vehicles, buses) is $50 per day. You can pay for cruise parking with a credit card, debit card or money order. Cash is no longer accepted as payment for parking.

The Port of Charleston provides free parking for vehicles displaying a valid accessible parking placard or license plate with ID. Wheelchair services are available inside the terminal. Alert a cruise port staff member for assistance.

Off-site parking is available with private companies like Park & Go , which offers cruise parking for $10 per day. It does not provide shuttle transportation from the lot to the cruise terminal, so you would need to take a taxi or Uber to the port.

A public parking garage is also an option. The maximum rate is $18 per day. The Cumberland Street parking garage (90 Cumberland St.) is the closest one to the port, less than a mile away.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Hotels near the Port of Charleston

The Charleston area offers an abundance of hotels, including some properties at which you can use or earn points. Whether you want convenient access to the cruise port and the city's historic downtown or to enjoy a riverfront pre- or post-cruise stay, here are a few to consider.

Hilton hotels near the Port of Charleston

For a quick overnight before a cruise, the Hilton Garden Inn Charleston Waterfront/Downtown is an ideal option (41,000 to 60,000 Hilton Honors points per night).

Its location on Ashley Marina provides easy access to the Charleston Historic District and other downtown attractions, and it's just under 2 miles from the cruise port. Amenities include an outdoor pool, a fitness center and free breakfast .

If you're looking for an upscale stay, Mills House Charleston, Curio Collection by Hilton is an excellent choice (80,000 to 459,000 Hilton Honors points per night). It exudes laid-back luxury with a distinctly Southern style, and the rooftop pool bar area is a prime spot for spectacular views of Charleston's steeple-filled skyline.

Related: Best Hilton credit cards

Marriott hotels near the Port of Charleston

For Marriott Bonvoy loyalists, there's the Courtyard Charleston Waterfront (30,000 to 59,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night), which sits about 3 miles from the cruise port. On certain dates throughout the year, you can also use a Marriott 35,000-point free night certificate to cover a stay here.

Relax by the fire pit, or take a dip in the outdoor waterfront pool. The Bistro is the hotel's only restaurant, but it also serves specialty Starbucks beverages if you can't function without your morning caramel macchiato latte.

For a boutique hotel experience, book a stay at The Lindy Renaissance Charleston Hotel, available from 40,000 to 81,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. An outdoor saltwater pool and upscale on-site dining venues like Vivian Howard's Handy & Hot and Lenoir are among many reasons to overnight here before or after your cruise.

Hyatt hotels near the Port of Charleston

Hyatt Place Charleston/Historic District is a lovely hotel right in the heart of Charleston's historic area and within walking distance of area restaurants, bars and shopping. It also has a rooftop bar area for a nightcap with nice city views. Nights start at 12,000 World of Hyatt points, and your stay includes free breakfast.

Non-points hotels near the Port of Charleston

Charleston teems with hotels that don't participate in traditional loyalty programs. When it comes to those, here are a few of our favorites.

For a mid-mod vibe, check out The Dewberry Charleston. Overlooking Marion Square, the hotel is convenient to King Street shopping, restaurants and historic sites.

Families will love the resort-style vacation atmosphere of The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina. Though not located downtown, it's right on the water, with taxi service from the marina to the city center.

Related: The 18 best hotels in Charleston, from historic inns to modern stays

Restaurants near the Port of Charleston

Charleston lands on many "best foodie destination" lists — and for good reason. Visitors can choose among just-caught seafood, local Lowcountry cuisine and upscale meals from James Beard Award-winning chefs. The Port of Charleston is convenient to the historic downtown area, so cruisers will find a bevy of destination dining and solid local eateries within walking distance or a short taxi ride away.

Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar (186 Concord St.), the place for fresh seafood and waterfront views, is right next door to the cruise port. Head to Poogan's Porch (72 Queen St.) for traditional Southern dishes served in a historic Victorian home (five minutes from the port). Other options within a 10-minute drive of the port include Chubby Fish (252 Coming St.) or local favorites like Rodney Scott's BBQ (1011 King St.) and Cru Cafe (18 Pinckney St.).

Related: Best dining credit cards

Things to do in Charleston before or after your cruise

Charleston tops many "best destinations" lists thanks to its array of historic sites, cultural attractions and natural diversions. If you decide to spend more time in the Holy City before or after your cruise, here are some things to do in Charleston.

Hit the beach

The city of Charleston is on a peninsula surrounded by a harbor, so there's no beach access within its limits. However, if you crave a little extra sand time, you'll find some popular beaches within a fairly short drive.

A little over 9 miles (about 20 minutes) from Charleston, Sullivan's Island is a charming beach town that offers wide beach areas with water sports opportunities (kayaking, paddleboarding and sailing). Peruse local shops, or explore history at Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park.

Folly Beach is less than 12 miles (about 21 minutes) from downtown. Its 6 miles of beach provide plenty of room for shelling, surfing or shark-tooth hunting. Or, take a guided kayak tour to Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve for a closer look at the historic Morris Island Lighthouse.

Visit the International African American Museum

This 150,000-square-foot museum houses more than 150 artifacts, artwork and interactive digital exhibits that chronicle the survival and resilience of slaves who likely made their way to Charleston through Gadsden's Wharf, the country's largest slave auction site from 1772 to 1808. The museum resides on that site (Gadsden's Wharf, 14 Wharfside St.).

Explore the aquarium

Cruising with the kids? Families will want to check out the South Carolina Aquarium (100 Aquarium Wharf), less than a mile from the cruise port (about a four-minute drive). The waterfront facility is home to more than 5,000 animals, including rehabilitating sea turtles in the Zucker Family Sea Turtle Recovery facility. Two touch tanks hold sharks, horseshoe crabs, stingrays and sea stars. The aquarium also hosts daily dive shows and rotating exhibits.

Take in some art

If you're into art, two Charleston museums should definitely be on your radar. The three-story Gibbes Museum of Art (135 Meeting St.) is the oldest museum facility in the South. Here, you'll find a collection of more than 10,000 paintings, sculptures, photographs and furniture.

Head to the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art at the College of Charleston (161 Calhoun St.) to peruse innovative works of emerging artists, seasonal shows and rotating exhibits. Admission is free.

Related: How to spend 48 hours in Charleston

Shopping near the Port of Charleston

Pick up last-minute cruise items at Tanger Outlets Charleston (4840 Tanger Outlet Blvd.), about a seven-minute drive from CHS. Harris Teeter (290 East Bay St.) is less than half a mile from the cruise port, should you wish to grab snacks, drinks and other groceries.

If souvenirs or upscale items are on your list, spend some time along Charleston's iconic King Street. Retailers like Free People, Urban Outfitters and Kate Spade line the cobblestone street along with locally owned shops offering jewelry, home goods and Charleston-branded items.

One of the city's most popular attractions is the historic Charleston City Market (188 Meeting St.). The open-air spot showcases local artisans selling paintings, spices and crafts, including hand-woven sweetgrass baskets.

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The best time to cruise to alaska in 2024.

Plan your bucket list adventure to explore the extraordinary beauty of the 49th state.

The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska

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Alaska's astounding beauty and vast wilderness are unlike any other destination in the U.S. – and even in the world. While you can plan land-based trips to the state, many of Alaska's majestic snowcapped mountains, pristine forests, glacial waterways and abundant wildlife are in remote locations, only reachable by plane or by boat. That's just one of the many reasons why Alaska is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world.

If you're ready to stop dreaming and start planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to The Great Land, here are tips on the best times to cruise Alaska.

Best Overall Time: Shoulder Seasons

Best time for warmer weather, best time for wildlife viewing, best time for salmon fishing, best time for the northern lights, best time for shore excursions.

If you want to score a deal and have fewer crowds, travel during the shoulder seasons: May and September. In these months, cruise fares are typically lower and ships are not as full, offering more cabin availability. However, with changes in the global climate bringing more moderate temperatures to Alaska, and the cruise season now extending into April and October, cruisers can also expect to find deals in April and October. There will be fewer sailings to choose from, but you may find lower pricing and avoid the peak-season crowds on the ship and in the ports.

In addition, select shore excursions may be available at a discount in the spring and fall. If you're planning on exploring Alaska on your own before or after your cruise, you'll also find cheaper hotel rates at the beginning or end of the cruise season.

Alaska's weather can change dramatically, especially the further north you go, no matter the month or season. While the weather may not be as predictable in April as in the middle of summer, Alaska can be beautiful in springtime with temperatures in the mid-40s, according to Tyler Hickman, senior vice president of Icy Strait Point, an Alaska Native-owned port in Hoonah and a port of call in Southeast Alaska. Hickman says there are long stretches of sunny days and crisp, clear evenings, offering the opportunity for late-season viewing of the northern lights . He also adds that April is one of the favorite times of year for local Alaskans.

If you're interested in cruising to Alaska in April, Norwegian Cruise Line has a few options, including weekly sailings on Norwegian Bliss beginning April 6. The line also offers Alaska itineraries through the end of October. Other lines sailing the extended season in Alaska in late April include Princess Cruises , Holland America Line , Royal Caribbean International , Carnival Cruise Line , UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions.

If you prefer to travel in the fall, early October temperatures are usually in the 50s, while the end of the month brings snow in the higher elevations. The days are longer and there are no crowds, so it may be an ideal time to visit if you're not interested in the summer outdoor experiences. Norwegian, Holland America and Seabourn Cruise Line offer sailings in October.

Read: The Best Alaska Cruise Deals

If you'd prefer warmer weather for your cruise, the summer season in Alaska runs from mid-May to mid-September. During that period, daytime temperatures typically range from 60 to 80 degrees, though they can drop into the 40s overnight. You can expect to have between 16 to 24 hours of daylight in the warmer season. May is considered the driest month, with around a 25% chance of precipitation, but the rain becomes more frequent throughout the summer.

Alaska.org, a website run by local Alaskans that provides travel information and recommendations, advises that the best time to visit in summer is from June 15 to July 15. This 30-day period is regarded as the peak season for warm, dry weather – and it's the perfect time for outdoor activities such as wildlife viewing, fishing and hiking. If you want to experience the most "midnight sun," plan to cruise a few weeks before or after the summer solstice – the longest day of the year – which falls on June 20 in 2024.

Come September, the days are generally shorter, rainier and cooler – but not always. You might get lucky with some unseasonably warm days amid the beautiful fall foliage ; as a bonus, September also means no bugs and fewer crowds.

If you have school-age children, you'll probably need to travel midsummer, during peak season. However, if you're flexible on dates, there's really no bad time to visit this magical destination. Mountain peaks shrouded in clouds or misty days cruising Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in late April are as beautiful as sunny days hiking through Tongass National Forest or whale watching on an excursion out of Icy Strait Point in July.

Read: The Best Places to Visit in Alaska

According to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, one of the top destinations on the Inside Passage itinerary, wildlife viewing is possible year-round, especially if you have your binoculars at hand. When you're not watching for turquoise ice calving in the bay from the glaciers, you might see humpback whales as long as 65 feet or black and brown bears up to 10 feet tall – as well as orcas, harbor and Dall's porpoises, sea otters, harbor seals, mountain goats, sea lions, seabirds, and bald eagles soaring overhead. And that's just what you can view from the ship.

During cruises through the park, rangers board the ships to offer commentary and information about the marine and terrestrial wildlife. They also help spot whales or other animals along the way. One of the highlights while cruising slowly through the park is to go outside on the bow of the ship – or even out onto your veranda – to listen to the incredible silence of this otherworldly place. You may hear nothing at all, or perhaps you'll be treated to the sounds of birds in the distance or the swoosh from a whale's blowhole before it dives down below the water's surface.

It's possible to view certain animals and marine life throughout the year, according to Hickman. "Whale sightings are consistent from May through September, with fewer occurring in April and October as they migrate from or to Hawaii for the winter," he says, adding: "Even on a foggy day when you can't see the whales, you can still hear them and feel their presence – and that's almost as incredible as seeing them from a ship or along the coastline."

If you're interested in spotting brown bears, here is Hickman's advice: "Bear sightings in the spring will depend on the snowpack and when they are leaving hibernation. This year we had very good bear viewing along the Spasski River starting in May when the coastal brown bears emerged from hibernation."

He adds, "They feed on the grass of the valley and eat skunk cabbage roots in May and early June. As the berries start to emerge in June, it holds many of the same bears, and as we get into mid-July, the salmon start heading upstream. There is a constant food source from May through September at Spasski. Many of the other bear viewing areas do not have the same features we have, and it leads to people thinking that bears are only around when fish are in the rivers."

Chichagof Island – the location of Hoonah and Icy Strait Point – was given the nickname "Bear Island" by National Geographic. The island boasts one to two brown bears per square mile, making it one of the largest brown bear populations in the world. Hickman says you're nearly guaranteed to see bears on one of Icy Strait Point's bear-watching tours. Icy Point Strait also offers whale watching adventures and other treks into the wilderness.

Alaska.org points to May through September as the best time for wildlife viewing, though you can spot some animals year-round, like moose or orcas. The website also advises that fly-in bear viewing starts in May but is at its best in July.

Looking to book a cruise to see Alaska's wildlife? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

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If you are an avid angler – or just want to watch the bears fish for their supper – then visit Alaska during the peak salmon runs, from May to September. King salmon season begins in May and goes through the end of July. The silver salmon run lasts from July up until the end of November. Red salmon are available between mid-June and mid-August, while you can catch pink and chum salmon in the brief window from mid-July to mid-August.

If you prefer halibut or just want to get out on the ocean, the best time for this wild Pacific species is from May to September. You can also seek out many other river and ocean species, such as rainbow trout, arctic char and northern pike. Cruise lines offer fishing excursions, or you can arrange for a private or group charter in an Alaskan town like Ketchikan.

If you want to see brown bears during the salmon run, book a bear-viewing excursion in one of the ports, such as Icy Strait Point. Or, extend your trip by combining a visit to Katmai National Park and Preserve and the renowned Brooks River with a stay at Brooks Lodge. Brooks Falls is the site for iconic photos of bears catching salmon that are jumping over the falls, and you may be able to view the bears feasting in salmon season when the property is open, from June through mid-September. The lodge is accessible by floatplane from King Salmon. You can also add a flyover tour during your stay to see the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, an area in southern Alaska transformed by ash from the 1912 Novarupta-Katmai volcanic eruption.

Aurora season – the best time to see the northern lights in Alaska – runs from mid-August to mid-April. While some passengers cruising the Inside Passage may catch a glimpse of the phenomenon in late summer and early fall, it's not guaranteed. As southeast Alaska typically has more precipitation and clouds since it's a temperate rainforest, you likely won't find optimal conditions for aurora viewing here.

Your chances to see the lights are better the further north you go, so you may want to look at booking a cruisetour: a land and sea package that's usually offered by some of the major cruise lines from May through September. These combined trips generally include the cruise, overnight accommodations in lodges, railway journeys and motorcoach travel between destinations.

With these tours, you'll be able to visit the vast landscape of Alaska, where you can explore cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks or spend time in Denali National Park and Preserve – and you'll have a better chance to view the northern lights. Lines that offer cruisetours include Norwegian, Celebrity Cruises , Holland America, Princess and Royal Caribbean.

Since 2024 is projected to be one of the best years to view the aurora borealis in Alaska, you might want to extend your trip to venture above the Arctic Circle or into Alaska's interior for a prime viewing opportunity. Fairbanks and the Arctic region are under the auroral oval, which is where the northern lights activity is concentrated. You can watch the forecast for the aurora borealis online at Explore Fairbanks' Aurora Tracker and the Geophysical Institute's Aurora Forecast .

Read: The Top Places to See the Northern Lights

Some of the excursions offered on an Alaskan cruise may be the most expensive tours you've seen on a ship, but they're also probably some of the coolest things you've ever thought about doing while on vacation.

Note that the probability of a tour being canceled for weather is almost the same for all tours offered between April and October, as the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable. Some of the more extreme tours, however, may not be available early or late in the season. If you want the best chance for optimal weather, consider the advice from Alaska.org and book your cruise between mid-June and mid-July.

If you're looking at splurging on a bucket list adventure while in Skagway – like Alaska Shore Tours' flightseeing helicopter adventure, which includes a dog-sledding experience on a glacier – you should check to make sure it's available the month you'll be cruising. This particular tour may not be open for booking before May or after September due to the conditions for the sled dogs.

Another over-the-top excursion dependent on optimal weather conditions is the Heli-Hike and Rail Adventure that begins in Skagway. This tour includes a helicopter ride from town that flies over glaciers and mountains, then drops you off for a roughly 5-mile guided hike to view Laughton Glacier and learn about the natural history of the area. After the hike, you'll board the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad at Glacier Station for the scenic journey through the mountains back to Skagway.

If you're interested in the Misty Fjords Flightseeing tour in Ketchikan, this thrilling ride is also best on a clear day. This Alaskan bush plane tour soars over the Misty Fjords National Monument, which has more than 2 million acres of pristine lakes, waterfalls, ancient forests and snowcapped mountains.

Tours that include activities like mountain climbing or navigating suspension bridges might also be best when done on a sunny day. The prime time for wildlife viewing and fishing, as mentioned above, will depend on what animals you're interested in seeing and which species of fish you want to catch.

The ship's excursion desk, local guides or tour providers can offer the best advice on how to plan your activities. No matter which tours you opt to take, be prepared for the ever-changing weather patterns by wearing layers – and make sure to bring a waterproof rain jacket. Before booking, you should check the individual tour operator's cancellation and refund policy.

Read: The Best Alaska Tours

The Bottom Line

If you're flexible as to when you can travel to Alaska, you may be able to take advantage of lower pricing, travel incentives and added perks in the shoulder seasons – and you'll have fewer crowds than in the busy summer months.

If your goal is to view wildlife, then most of the cruise season, especially from May to September, will offer ample opportunities to see bears, humpbacks whales, bald eagles and other amazing animals – depending on the itinerary and excursions you choose. You'll also be able to catch Alaska's prized salmon throughout much of the cruise season.

And if extreme adventures are going to be the highlight of your vacation, then be sure to check with the tour providers to make sure your top picks are offered when you're planning to travel. Not all tour providers operate the full seven months of the season.

No matter when you decide to visit, a cruise to The Great Land will be one of the most memorable vacations of your lifetime.

Planning a cruise to see Alaska? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times on land trips and by ship to seek year-round outdoor adventure, view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Top Luxury Alaska Cruises
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• Do You Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise?

Most Beautiful Landscapes in the World

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

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